So, I enlisted in the National Guard today, I got through MEPS (Finally, third times a charm right?) My MOS is a 74D. I have questions that I'm not really comfortable asking in person, for whatever reason, I've never wanted to sound pathetic, I didn't want to come off that way.

I read about the 74D, I know it's a non-combat MOS, but what are the odds that I go somewhere that I can't bring my soon to be wife with me? Is it a desk job? Am I going to be running around with a bunch of fellow soldiers seeing explosions and people dying? I know it sounds pathetic, but these are things I feel I need to prepare myself for before I actually get to them.

Honestly, I'm scared to death. I chose this because it's the only way I'll be able to have a future, it's the only way I'll be able to become stronger. But I keep thinking, what if I don't come back from a deployment? What are the odds of that? I guess I know what my duties are for my MOS, and I know I swore to serve and protect, and I will serve and protect, with all my heart.

I'm worried about being away from her as well, are there MOS's where you're more likely to be able to bring your spouse where you need to go to complete your mission? If so, what are they? Are there comprehensive guides available for all MOS's? If there is, I would love a point in the right direction.

I don't want to let a fellow soldier down because I don't know what to do, I have no idea what being a soldier is going to be like, I don't. Will they teach me everything I need to know to be successful? Will they teach me all I need to know, to do my job to perfection, so I can protect our team? I feel so lowly and lost, and I feel like I should already know the answers to all my questions, and that I should't be scared shitless.

I appreciate the time you've taken to read this and answer some questions, I appreciate any pointers, and pushes in the right direction.

Originally posted by drklabyrinth:I've never wanted to sound pathetic, I didn't want to come off that way.

I think you may have anyway.

All your questions depend on the unit you are assigned. Most 74Ds I met hand out gas masks prior to training and deployment.

Being scared is normal in life when you're doing something for the first time; it's how ou deal with the fear that makes you who you are.

If you're going to be a Soldier, you're going to deploy and be away your wife and family ... this is part of the military. If you don't think she's prepared for that kind of life, you may need to reevaluate your career decision or your personal decisions.

The Army will teach you most everything you need to know to be successful, but if you're not willing to put in some extra time and be proactive, you'll be just an average person doing and average job.

Best of luck with your Army career and upcoming marriage and stay strong.